Seeta Patel’s daring fusion of Bharatanatyam and Stravinsky offers a unique exploration of tradition and innovation, leaving us with a captivating, albeit occasionally challenging, artistic experience.
Seeta Patel’s rendition of “The Rite of Spring” merges traditional and contemporary elements, creating a dynamic interplay between Bharatanatyam dance and Stravinsky’s famous composition.
Having already toured the performance piece in the UK from 2019 to 2021, earning praises such as the 2020 Eastern Eye Arts, Culture and Theatre Award in Dance and a nomination for Best Stage Production by the Asian Media Group in 2019 in the process, Patel went on to further develop her choreography, collaborating with an extended cast and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra to add further layers of complexity to her show.
In the opening solo, “Shree,” Patel embarks on a captivating journey seemingly symbolizing birth and the changing seasons. Accompanied by skilled musicians Samyukta Ranganathan (vocals), Prathap Ramachandran (percussion), and Vijay Venkat (flute), this set the stage for the contrasting Western classic, Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring,” that was to follow after a quick intermission.
Patel’s bold artistic direction challenges conventional expectations, blending Indian Bharatanatyam choreography with modern influences. This fusion results in a dynamic visual, holding engaging tension throughout the performance. However, Patel’s vision sometimes perplexed, as certain choreographic choices disrupted the otherwise precise and synchronized movements of the dancers. Moments of fluidity and grace occasionally gave way to abrupt shifts, challenging us as the audience to navigate contrasting emotions embedded in not only Stravinsky’s composition but also the dancers‘ interpretation of it.
The meticulous attention to detail extends also to the costumes, a fusion of traditional Bharatanatyam attire and modern design. The vibrant colors and embellishments accentuate the dancers’ movements, adding colour and richness to the performance. The costumes not only pay homage to the roots of Bharatanatyam but also contribute to the overall innovative aesthetic, blending tradition with a modern flair.
Additionally, the show incorporates a striking use of shadow play. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the depth of the performance, casting stunning silhouettes that complement the dance sequences. This technique adds an extra layer of fascination, creating a visual spectacle that captivates the audience and further exemplifies Patel’s commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
A definite strength lies in the dance cast’s ability to establish a connection with the audience, drawing us in through moments of intimacy and vulnerability individually and as an ensemble. However, the boundary-pushing nature of the performance occasionally distanced some members of the audience, highlighting the delicate balance required when innovation tries to meet traditional expectations.
Seeta Patel’s “The Rite of Spring” boldly explores the intersection of tradition and innovation, showcasing definite moments of brilliance. Seeta herself describes immersing yourself into Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring“ like walking into a calm, shallow, sunkissed pool, but feeling that there is something much bigger than anything you’ve ever known about to consume you. This brings anticipation, excitement and a strange sense of foreboding.“ She manages to bring across exactly these emotions in her performance, opening her world for a 90-minute window.